Phil Smith

McInnes is on Sunderland's shortlist as they look to replace David Moyes, and are said to be impressed by how he has rebuilt Aberdeen since taking over in 2013.

The Scottish Cup final is a chance for McInnes to land a second trophy in charge of the Dandies, winning the Scottish League Cup in 2014.

He has also secured three consecutive third place finishes despite a limited budget.

Rodgers said: "Derek has done a great job, not just this year but building up over the course of the last four seasons. They have had a really high standard of play," he told Sky Sports News HQ.

"We've played them five times and won the five games and they have all been slightly different in terms of how they have performed and how they have played.

"But he has them very well organised, they are very well drilled, they play to their strengths and, even though we won the League Cup final and played very well, and in the league, they have all been tough games."

The Cup final gives Rodgers' side a chance to land a historic treble, having gone the entire league season unbeaten.